Information about all aspects of finances affected by a serious health condition. Includes income sources such as work, investments, and private and government disability programs, and expenses such as medical bills, and how to deal with financial problems.

Information about all aspects of health care from choosing a doctor and treatment, staying safe in a hospital, to end of life care. Includes how to obtain, choose and maximize health insurance policies.

Answers to your practical questions such as how to travel safely despite your health condition, how to avoid getting infected by a pet, and what to say or not say to an insurance company.

Content Overview

Travel With An Ostomy

Summary

The following is based on information contained in YES WE CAN! By Barbara Kupfer, et al

Check with your doctor about whether or not you should travel, whether any modes of transportation or destinations should be avoided. He or she can also tell you what effect, if any, your planned activities may have on you because of your condition.

Never trust your supplies to anyone else except close family members or friends.

Always carry your supplies with you. Never check them with your baggage.

If leaking in a strange bed is a concern, carry a crib size baby pad or large plastic bags to put under a sheet.

Used plastic grocery bags are a great way to dispose of used pouches while concealing any odor.

When moving around, carry an extra adhesive device and pouch in case you need a replacement.

Use a bathroom when one is handy. Don’t rely on hoping that one will be available when you need it.

If you use two piece equipment, consider using one piece equipment when traveling. It is one less thing to worry about.

Only drink safe liquids, such as liquids from unopened bottles. For information about safe drinking water, click here.

Keep contact information for an ET nurse or this link to help you locate one while traveling: at www.wocn.org. Click on “Patient Information” then “Find A Nurse In Your Area”.

If you have an ileostomy or a continent ileostomy:

Fluids are lost in the stool. Drink enough fluids to keep your urine light yellow.

Moderately salted foods compensate for electrolyte loss.

If you have a colostomy:

In case you need to heat safe drinking water, carry a portable heater (with a universal electrical adapter if traveling out of the country).

If you are crossing time zones, or likely to change your daily habits, think about changing the time you irrigate for a few weeks before travel to get used to the new schedule at home rather than while traveling.